There is always a last-minute move before the European transfer window slams shut at the end of August but the latest deal to be made involving a South Korean star came so late that it will actually take place at the start of 2010.
Ki Sung-yong has signed for Scotland titans Glasgow Celtic but will join the team next January. The 20 year-old is as highly-rated as they come and despite his tender age, is already an established international and one of Asia’s hottest properties.
“I don’t see him making a big impact on the team right now. If he does come, then I’d suggest it’s something for the future,” said Celtic head coach Tony Mowbray just before the deal was done. “He’s a young player with potential. Every player we sign is a big signing, but this kid has potential.”
The reason why Ki is staying in the Land of the Morning Calm for the rest of the year is the simple fact that his club FC Seoul was not prepared to sell him before 2010. Seoul is leading the K-League and the team is preparing for the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League. The midfielder is a vital part of the Seoul set-up.
“In the beginning there was talk of a transfer in August, but it was pushed to January because of our team’s circumstances,” FC Seoul General Manager Han Woong-soo said. “Now it’s win-win for both clubs.”
The transfer fee is reported to be around $3.5 million but the player cares only about his next challenge.
I chatted to the youngster recently who is looking forward to the challenge.
“I think that Celtic are a good club for me because first of all, Celtic are a great …